(#3 Will Have You Floored!)
In the past, marijuana was a social pariah in much of the United States. However, with legislation advocating the legalization of both medical and recreational weed, it looks like cannabis is going to make a more permanent appearance in the social landscape of the American people.
But what’s so special about cannibis? Easy: its health benefits!
Medicinal marijuana is being used far more frequently by those who suffer from medical conditions than standard painkillers — not only because it is more natural but because it has fewer side effects.
So, the next time you make an appointment with your doctor (and you have a qualifying medical condition), ask about a prescription for some medical marijuana. Then, you can toke up however you like: dry herb vape, a traditional doobie, or a big hit from your favorite bong.
So, what are some medical conditions that can benefit from medical cannabis? Well, let’s find out!
1. Anxiety/Depression
We have receptors that control various functions within the body, including temperature, mood, appetite, sleep, and pain. When cannabis is introduced into the body, it reacts with these receptors, which then delivers its sweet, healthy goodness.
So, for those who suffer from anxiety and depression, weed can help calm the effects of anxiety as well as improve mood and alleviate the pain associated with depression.
However, it would be wise to stick to strains that are higher in CBD as THC can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. A great strain for those with anxiety, depression, or both is Jack Herer.
2. Parkinson’s Disease
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, around 80% of patients with PD have used medical marijuana for their symptoms. With those kind of numbers, something must be working for those who have Parkinson’s disease.
For those with PD, patients can experience an improvement in both neurological and non-neurological symptoms including weight loss, anxiety, sleep, nausea, and pain management.
3. Dravet Syndrome
“Dravet Syndrome? Never heard of it. What is it, exactly?”
Great question! Dravet Syndrome (also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy or SMEI) is a rare, severe form of epilepsy that begins in the first year of life. It is accompanied by prolonged, frequent seizures along with a host of other health problems including sleep, growth, nutrition, behavioral, and chronic infections.
As of now, CBD, as well as CBD rich strains, has some promise in alleviating symptoms within Dravet patients –– remember our receptor talk from before?
4. Cancer/Chemo
The use of cannabis for cancer and chemotherapy is not a new topic. There has already been an abundance of research that has been conducted on the subject, including its effects of halting the spread of cancer cells in patients.
On the flip side, though, weed can effectively alleviate nausea and vomiting as a result of chemotherapy and help alleviate neuropathic pain (when inhaled).
5. Arthritis
Marijuana is notable for its ability to reduce inflammation within the body and this is no different for those who suffer from arthritis. It can also help alleviate pain in patients and aid in other accompanying problems including sleep and mood.
Conclusion
The legalization of medical marijuana has really taken off all across the United States and for good reason. Medical weed comes with a variety of health benefits for not only the average person but for those who suffer from medical conditions like depression and cancer and all without the harmful, pesky side effects that come from prescription meds.
Ed. note: use of marijuana, for medical or recreational purposes, is not legal in all jurisdictions. Check with your local authorities and physician before using any controlled substance.
